Solar dryers are devices that use solar energy to dry substances, especially food. The basic function of a solar dryer is to heat air to a constant temperature with solar energy, which facilitates extraction of humidity from crops inside a drying chamber.

Solar dryers require a certain investment for the set-up of the appliance, but no expenditures for the fuel. Solar drying will only be successful, when it shows tangible benefits in comparison to existing drying methods. In comparison to the traditional way of drying outside in an open field, solar dryers prevent contamination of produce by dust, insects, etc., thereby ensuring quality.